MATERIAL HANDLING IN FRP

STORAGE AND HANDLING OF MATERIAL used for FRP:

RESIN:

1.      All the resins used in reinforced plastics should be stored in a cool, dry place.

2.      Epoxy resins are not as sensitive to the effects of storage temperature as are polyesters and phenolics and hence do not require storage below room temperature.

3.      Resins which are catalyzed and/or advanced to the B-stage may require a refrigerated storage.

4.      Resins in storage should be kept in tightly sealed containers to prevent the evaporation of volatile monomers and solvents especially for polyesters, phenolics and low viscosity grades of epoxies.

5.      Material, especially polyesters should be stored in containers that exclude light. Common containers are steel drums, tin cans or brown light-proof bottles.

6.      Various monomers and solvents, associated with resins must also be stored under conditions similar to the resin with which they are used and adequate ventilation should be provided to prevent the accumulation of fumes which can otherwise become a fire hazard. Also adequate grounding (earthing) should be provided on all equipment to dissipate any static charges.

7.      When the material which is stored under refrigeration, is used, the container should not be opened until the resin has reached the room temperature to avoid moisture condensation on the resin.

CATALYSTS, HARDENING AGENTS AND ACCELERATORS:

1.      They must be stored in a manner similar to their corresponding resin.

2.      Catalysts for polyesters should be treated with additional precaution. As powerful oxidizing material, they should be stored such that fire can be prevented.

REINFORCEMENTS:

1.      There are no toxic or fire hazards in the storage or handling of glass fibre reinforcements. However organic reinforcement may cause smoke or fume which result in a fire.

2.      In general the reinforcement material must be stored in a dry atmosphere to minimize moisture pickup and to insure high quality mouldings.

CATALYSED RESINS AND B-STAGED FABRICS:

1.      Refrigerated storage is necessary for all catalyzed resins and B-staged fabrics. The lower the temperature, the longer will be the usable life.

2.      The catalyzed resin should be kept in sealed container and B-staged fabrics should be wrapped in several layers of cellophane or Polyethylene (PE) film when in storage.

3.      The material should be allowed to reach the room temperature before being opened or unwrapped to avoid possible moisture condensation on the catalyzed material.

ANCILLARY MATERIALS:

Ancillary materials such as parting agents, sealants, films, fillers, and pigments must be stored under normal room temperature storage conditions.